Quick N' Easy Remedies For Heartburn
Heartburn is far more common than one thinks. Yet, it is one of the most uncomfortable experiences that results in hiccups, a burning sensation in your throat and chest and sometimes even acid reflux. It is usually caused or sometimes triggered by eating spicy or acidic foods which can be avoided when possible; however, when heartburn does strike there are certain things you can do to ease the discomfort. Here are some quick and easy remedies for heartburn.
An Over-The-Counter Medicine
The quickest heartburn treatment is to take an antacid that gives immediate but short-term relief or a PPI (Proton Pump Inhibitor) medicine that gives long-term relief. PPIs work by decreasing the amount of acid made by the stomach, which in turn helps relieve symptoms and discomfort.
These medicines need no prescription and can be taken on a daily basis; however if you are unsure consult your doctor first.
Identify (And Avoid) Triggers
Certain foods and food groups are also known to trigger heartburn. Spicy and acidic foods are the most common culprits but sometimes certain foods and drinks affect some people prone to heartburn while not bothering others. These include chocolate, peppermint, milk, coffee, alcohol and fizzy drinks. Identify which foods and drinks spark off feelings of discomfort for you and where possible, avoid them completely.
Change Your Routine
Sometimes, small things such as exercising too soon before or after eating, or a particular sleeping position, can trigger heartburn. Doing something as simple as changing your routine (exercising at least an hour before a meal) or sleeping on your left side instead of on your back or front, for instance, can help you manage your heartburn more effectively.
Pregnancy-Related Heartburn
Heartburn is also a common side-effect during pregnancy, primarily because of the additional weight which puts pressure on the stomach and weakens the muscles of the oesophagus. Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of larger meals, and leaving a gap of at least 1-2 hours between dinner and bedtime to aid in digestion often helps. Wearing loose-fitting PJs also helps you feel more comfortable when sleeping or lying down.
Quit Smoking
There is no ‘good’ reason for smoking and heartburn is another reason to quit. Cigarettes and even second-hand cigarette smoke is a trigger for heartburn, so if you’re a smoker, there’s another reason to give it up.
Other Useful Tips
Sleeping with your upper body slightly elevated also helps in easing the discomfort of heartburn. Either raise the head of your bed or use 3-4 pillows and sleep slightly upright from the waist.
Sipping on ginger tea (just boiling water seeped in ginger - avoid the milk) through the day is also a known home remedy for heartburn.
Another lesser-known home remedy is to dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and drink it slowly. Baking soda helps neutralize the acid in the stomach.
Avoid tight, restrictive clothing as far as possible - the more comfortable and loose your clothes are (especially around the waist), the less sick you will feel.
Chewing gum is also effective as it helps to dilute the acid in your stomach
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